How to Hang a Raised Bathroom Toilet From a Wall for Senior Care

Wall-mounted raised toilets are also easier to clean under.

A raised toilet is easier on elderly joints and more accessible to seniors in wheelchairs. A wall-mounted version may be a good option if you are caring for a senior in your home. Your raised toilet should be accompanied by grab bars and installed in a spacious bathroom, if possible, for those who use wheelchairs or walkers. Hanging the bowl of the toilet is one of the most important steps, as it supports the weight of users. Before hanging the toilet bowl, you must first install the water inlet and waste outlet pipes.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Closet carrier system
• Adjustable wrench
• Level
• Sealant
• Putty knife
• Rag
• Toilet tank
• Toilet seat
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Unpack the toilet bowl and all its parts. Make sure nothing is missing from the manufacturer's list of enclosed components and that the toilet is not damaged.

2. Install the toilet's closet carrier system, following the manufacturer's instructions. The carrier system determines the height of the toilet, so be sure to select one that is high enough. This system sets on the floor behind the finished wall, and includes the waste outlet and fresh water inlet. Once installed, four fixture studs from the carrier system poke out 2.125 inches through your finished wall.

3. Attach backup nuts to the fixture studs. The bottom nuts should be flush with the finished wall. Ensure the waste outlet sticks out from the finished wall by 5/16 inches, and then tighten the top backup nuts until they are on the same vertical plane as the lower nuts.

4. Attach a felt or neoprene gasket on the toilet bowl's outlet. This ensures an air-tight seal, once the bowl is installed.

5. Lift the bowl and place the fixture studs in the bowl's corresponding holes. Have a helper check to ensure the bowl's outlet gasket is compressed between the bowl and the carrier's waste outlet. Attach cap nuts and fiber washers to the fixture studs to fasten the bowl to the wall, saving the top-right stud for last. Do not over-tighten the nuts.

6. Apply sealant between the bowl and finished wall, using a putty knife, and wipe away excess using a clean rag. Fill the bowl with water, which will keep sewer gas from escaping.

7. Install the toilet's tank following the manufacturer's instructions, usually by bolting it to the bowl and attaching the fresh water inlet from behind the finished wall. Test the toilet by flushing it, to ensure water is flowing appropriately. Fasten a seat to the toilet, using a screwdriver and the seat's provided screws. Attach the seat by screwing four screws through the seat's hinge, then into the seat-mount on the toilet.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unfamiliar with plumbing, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to install your toilet -- to prevent damage to your home, bathroom or pipe system.

• A wall-mounted toilet must be installed properly, to avoid breaking away from the wall and causing serious damage or injury.

References

• MySeniorCare: Senior Friendly Bathroom Improvements
• Crane Plumbing: Installation Instructions for Wall Hung Valve Bowls